Cover From the studio to the court, the café to the track—meet four men redefining success on their own terms with the sophisticated DENZA D9 as their ultimate companion (Photo: Fady Younis)
From the studio to the court, the café to the track—meet four men redefining success on their own terms with the sophisticated DENZA D9 as their ultimate companion (Photo: Fady Younis)
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Tatler+
From the studio to the court, the café to the track—meet four men redefining success on their own terms with the sophisticated DENZA D9 as their ultimate companion
In a world where movement defines success, four Malaysian entrepreneurs share a common thread—the relentless pursuit of progress and the power of meaningful connection.
The breakneck pace of modern life, combined with non-stop deadlines and the convenience of being connected online 24/7, has fragmented our lives as much as it has optimised the way we work and live. Yet as simple as it sounds, genuine connection remains the key to this modern-day conundrum—inviting us to step out of our comfort zones and recharge with like-minded individuals who derive purpose from being truly present.
Read more: The Denza D9 makes its Malaysian debut
Enter the DENZA D9, an all-electric luxury MPV that's redefining sophistication for the modern man on the move—the ideal travel companion to suit the eclectic lifestyles of four Tatler friends. From the fitness-focused world of entrepreneur Mark Choo to the unapologetic creativity of designer and photographer Ridduan Ismail; from the effortlessly stylish moments that define Hadri Hashim's multidisciplinary ventures to the endurance-driven pace of F&B entrepreneur Jeff Lau, the DENZA D9 celebrates men who understand that greatness happens when you step beyond comfort zones and embrace connection on your own terms.
Above Photographer and creative director Ridduan Ismail, tells a story with every frame
Above Photographer and creative director Ridduan Ismail, tells a story with every frame
Photographer and creative director Ridduan Ismail, tells a story with every frame
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In the DENZA D9, every journey becomes an opportunity to think, to connect, and to evolve
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For photographer and creative director Ridduan Ismail, known affectionately as TTFGA, every frame tells a story. “Connection is everything to me. It's the energy between the people I'm with, the emotion I carry or receive,” he shares. His minimalist aesthetic and keen eye for detail mirror the DENZA D9's sleek design philosophy—purposeful, refined, and deeply intentional.
Between shoots and creative direction sessions, the D9's spacious, modern interior becomes an extension of his studio, offering the peace of mind needed to curate the next visual masterpiece.
“Modern luxury to me? It’s peace of mind. It’s having that sense of ease, elegance and feeling calm in your own space and within yourself.” he muses.
Above Runner and entrepreneur Jeff Lau prioritises those quiet moments in between busy sessions
Above The DENZA D9's innovative features complement Lau’s active lifestyle seamlessly
Runner and entrepreneur Jeff Lau prioritises those quiet moments in between busy sessions
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The DENZA D9's innovative features complement Lau’s active lifestyle seamlessly
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Ultra-marathon runner and founder of Uncle Jeff Drinks, Jeff Lau, understands that luxury isn't about excess—it's about space. “Modern luxury is space—mental space, time to breathe, to run without checking your phone. True luxury is the freedom to live slow in a world that’s always rushing” says Lau, who made history in 2024 as the first Southeast Asian to run 1,000 miles in three weeks during the Ultra Triathlon Italy.
The DENZA D9's innovative features, including an integrated onboard fridge perfect for post-training hydration and massage chairs for recovery, complement his active lifestyle seamlessly. With its advanced e³ technology and DiSus intelligent body control system, every journey becomes an opportunity to reset between training sessions.
“What drives me is the the curiosity to see how far I can go—the same thing that drives me to run an ultramarathon,” Lau says. “Every day is like another mile; some are easy, some are brutal, but I move because I want to discover what’s beyond the next hill. Running seems like a solo sport, but in ultras, you realise you can’t do it alone.
“You need your crew, your pacers, the people who hand you water at 3 am. It’s the same in life and business — I stay independent in vision, but I move forward through teamwork.”
Fitness enthusiast and founder of Pickle Social Club, Mark Choo thrives on creating spaces where people connect
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Above Fitness enthusiast and founder of Pickle Social Club, Mark Choo thrives on creating spaces where people connect
Above “I’m always on the move, always rushing and doing a few things at once,” Choo says
Fitness enthusiast and founder of Pickle Social Club, Mark Choo thrives on creating spaces where people connect
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Fitness enthusiast, gym owner and founder of Pickle Social Club, Mark Choo thrives on creating spaces where people connect. "I build spaces where people connect—where ideas, sweat, and joy come to life," he explains.
After intense pickleball sessions, the D9's comfort-focused features—including its massage chairs and spacious cabin—provide the perfect sanctuary. "I'm always on the move, always rushing and doing a few things at once," Choo admits, making the D9's sophisticated yet functional design an ideal companion for his dynamic lifestyle.
“I chase time, ideas and meetings. But also that I think deeply between destinations. I value my freedom, my space to think and create—but I’ve learned that collaboration is what truly brings ideas to life. I’m still figuring out how to trust more, delegate better, and let people do what they’re great at. Celebrating small wins and practising gratitude with my team helps me stay grounded.” Choo adds.
Above Hadri Hashim is the founder of Thursdvys cafe
Above From fashion to F&B and aviation, Hadri Hashim's diverse portfolio demands versatility
Hadri Hashim is the founder of Thursdvys cafe
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Above From fashion to F&B and aviation, Hadri Hashim's diverse portfolio demands versatility
From fashion to F&B and aviation, Hadri Hashim's diverse portfolio demands versatility
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From fashion to F&B and aviation, Hadri Hashim's diverse portfolio demands versatility. "I'm driven by the idea of progress, not perfection but momentum," says the upbeat and stylish founder of Thursdvys cafe. The DENZA D9's refined interior, complete with practical workspace features and elegant design, allows him to work seamlessly whether at his café or on the road.
"Modern luxury to me is time and freedom—the ability to choose how you spend your day," Hadri notes, perfectly capturing the D9's philosophy. “Independence gives me clarity, collaboration gives me strength. I’ve learned that real success happens when your vision meets the right people, when everyone brings their craft to the table, it will all click organically.”
Above The angular headlights on the D9 enhance the MPV’s powerful silhouette
The angular headlights on the D9 enhance the MPV’s powerful silhouette
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Above The spacious interiors of the Denza D9 makes every journey an on-the-go luxury
Above The Denza D9: where cutting-edge innovation meets elegant design
The spacious interiors of the Denza D9 makes every journey an on-the-go luxury
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The DENZA D9 brings these four worlds together, embodying the spirit of movement, connection and creativity. As these entrepreneurs demonstrate, true luxury in this new era isn't measured in excess—it's found in the freedom to move with purpose, the space to create meaningful connections, and the sophistication to do it all with effortless style.
As a new energy vehicle, the DENZA D9 elevates this experience even further. Its quiet, fully electric drive and advanced intelligent features redefine what modern mobility can be, proving that sustainability and luxury not only coexist but enhance one another.
In the DENZA D9, every journey becomes an opportunity—to think, to connect, to evolve. This is movement reimagined: where cutting-edge innovation meets elegant design, and where the road ahead is paved with possibility. Because when you're driven by ambition and united by connection, sophistication isn't just a destination—it's the journey itself.
Credits
Photography: Fady Younis
Videography: Akmal Azman and Teh Othman
Producer: Eke Sumber Omardin and Atiyya Zulkarnain
Previously contributing to Esquire Malaysia, Expat Lifestyle and Newsweek, Tania oversees digital stories across Tatler’s key content pillars, also leading the Front & Female platform exploring issues and topics affecting women today.
